Scholarships gift you free money for college, based on merit or need. Student loans, on the other hand, need to be repaid with interest post-graduation.
Student loans, whether federal or private, are investments in your education, to be repaid after leaving college. They cover everything from tuition to transportation.
Scholarships don't need to be repaid. Awarded for academic, artistic, or athletic excellence, they reduce debt and open doors for all students, rich or poor.
While scholarships offer debt-free support, student loans fill the financial gaps. Choosing the right mix is key to funding your education without financial strain.